Why This Watch Matters This classic diver was made for Sears, Roebuck and Co., a U.S. department store. The Full Story An anchor at many American malls of the 20th century, Sears or Sears, Roebuck and Co. should be a name that sounds familiar at least. Orvin on the other hand, may not. Just as with Baylor with Zales, Orvin was an inhouse brand name for some Sears watches. Rather than slap their own name on the dial, these retailers chose to choose something that could be perceived as "fancier" or more reliable at least. This Orvin is going for more reliability. As a Skin Diver style tool watch, Sears looked to provide their customers with a simple, robust, go-anywhere dive watch in this Orvin. The resulting watch has a bit of a Tudor Ranger look to it combined with a Submariner. The 6-9-12 layout with the date at three reminds me of a Tudor Ranger Date and the black rotating bezel is where the Submariner inspiration kicks in. We also appreciate the minimal text on the dial. Confirming the Sears provenance are case stampings from Sears as well as a US import code on the movement reading "SOX." We paired this Orvin, or Sears, with our Bedford strap in light grey to keep things simple. The Fine Print Maker: OrvinModel: N/AReference: N/AYear: 1960sCase No: 10571Material: Chrome plated with stainless steel casebackDimensions: 36mm diameter; 12mm thickness Crystal: PlexiglassLume: Yes, tritiumCaliber: AS, manually-wound, caliber 1802/03Bracelet/Strap: HODINKEE The Bedford Suede Watch Strap In Light GreyLug Width: 20mmBox/Papers: No What We Love And What You Should Know Things We Love: - Classic dive watch look- Sears provenance- Excellent lume patina- Glossy black dial Things To Know: - Scratches on case This Orvin is in overall great and honest condition. The case is strong and shows some light scratches and nicks. The chrome plating is in good condition and intact. The reverse side of the lugs have scratches from strap placement and removal. The engravings on the caseback are clearly visible and the caseback has some scratches, most likely from opening. The dial is in great condition without any blemishes and has retained a gorgeous glossy black finish. The dial has some light patina. The lume on the handset and dial has all aged to a matching creamy patina. The hands have developed patina. The bezel is in good condition with sharp notches on the edge and minimal scratches. The edge of the bezel shows some normal wear. The bezel has faded ever so slightly and in some lights it can look dark grey. The dial is signed by Orvin. The case and movement are signed by Sears. This watch was photographed on a 145mm/5.5inch wrist.
